Wireless local-area networks (WLANs) can now take advantage of the Advantest R3681 test tool for analyzing spectrum and broadband modulation. It features an average noise level of −156 dBm/Hz, 26-dBm typical third-order intermodulation distortion, and a 142-dBm dynamic range.
The R3681 covers from 20 Hz to 32 GHz and possesses a typical signal purity of −124 dBc/Hz (at 800 MHz with a 10-kHz offset). Typical noise floor is down to −168 dBm/Hz. For modulation analysis, the instrument has an RF input of 50 MHz to 6 GHz and a baseband IQ input of up to 20 MHz.
The instrument's 12-in. touchscreen display can be divided into four separate windows, each the same size as displays found on conventional instruments. Users can analyze a signal from four different aspects without switching screens.
Optional WLAN software allows the R3681 to perform orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) analysis according to IEEE 802.11, HiSWANa, and HiperLAN2 standards. Users can also change the OFDM modulation parameters so the R3681 can be used to analyze signals based on proprietary standards under development.
With the OFDM modulation option, the instrument can be used to analyze time-domain waveforms via spectrograms, modulation using constellations, frequency tolerance errors, outband emission power, subcarrier power, spurious signals, carrier leakage power, spectrum flatness, and demodulated data.
The R3681 costs $68,900. The optional OFDM software costs $9900. Both are available within six weeks.
Advantest America Measuring Solutions Inc.www.advantest.com